First timer questions about river touring in Russia

[lissie]

Hi, I am a long time traveller but have never been on a cruise before, in fact I've never done a tour of any description! I am considering a Russian trip next year with my partner. I am 45, hes 55. We are from Australia/ NZ so we are looking for a more budget experience than some of the prices I have seen quoted here. Basically I like the idea of cruising from Moscow to St Petersburg or v.v. as its quite difficult to travel independently in Russia still, with the cruise company sorting out the visa we would then spend some extra days each end exploring those 2 cities on our own. So I guess I am asking - any companies that just do the cruise - or we can negotiate taking off the St P/Moscow stays at each end, we don't need to pay for 4 star hotels!, any companies which specialise in a younger demographic than the seriously elderly. Nothing wrong with older folks but we will be wanted to do quite a lot of touring and I don't want to be herded on a bus just to avoid a 20min walk:) Is it OK to wonder off from the group in town or are still expected to stay with the tour group by the Russian authorities?

Sorry for all the dumb questions! Thanks

[Coral]

I did a Russian River Cruise this past year. There were several who did not take the ship's tours in Moscow and St. Petersburg and just toured on their own. There were no problems with that. Just let the CD know.

 

I am in my 30's and went with Amadeus. There were a few younger than I but most of the people were in their 50's and 60's with many older than that. You may want to look into Vantage or GCT - they usually cater to an older group but they have hotel stays instead of a boat for Moscow and St. Petersburg. This may be beneficial for you.